Shipping Refrigerated Food from Charlotte to Monterrey via Air Freight

Transporting perishable goods successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for frozen goods, pre‑chill products before packing, and choose a time‑definite service. Clearly mark boxes as “Perishable” and specify the required temperature so carriers handle them as Reefer cargo.

Yes, frozen goods can in many cases be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines Set limits on how much dry ice is allowed per package and per shipment, and labels must show the net weight of dry ice and UN1845 markings. Our compliance team recommends checking carrier and destination rules in advance and combining dry ice with insulated packaging to keep reefer cargo at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may restrict coverage for temperature-related loss on chilled food and Frozen goods. Insurance specialists generally recommend arranging a policy that specifically covers temperature deviation and spoilage, and declaring the full value of your refrigerated food shipment. Keep packing records and temperature logs; insurers often require proof that correct handling was used before honoring claims.

Most chilled beverages should stay between 0–4°C, while many frozen goods products must remain at −18°C or colder. Exact ranges depend on the product type and local regulations. Always Confirm requirements for each item and specify the target range on booking instructions and labels so your Reefer cargo is set correctly.

You can sometimes mix chilled food and frozen goods in the same load, but only if your container or vehicle can maintain separate temperature zones. Fresh produce typically needs temperatures above freezing, while Frozen goods must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, best practice is separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

It is crucial to maintain appropriate temperature controls throughout the air freight process to ensure the integrity of fresh and frozen food. This includes using refrigerated containers for chilled products and ensuring that frozen items remain at or below -18°C during transit.

Shipments of Fresh & Frozen Food must comply with both U.S. and Mexican food safety regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and certifications. Additionally, proper documentation such as a phytosanitary certificate may be required for fresh produce, and customs clearance must be completed in accordance with Mexican regulations.

With one shipment, SAMMIE can demonstrate the visibility, reliability, and partnership benefits it delivers.

DNA Supply Chain captures our belief that success in business, like in life, depends on a foundation built on strong bonds, shared values, and trust, which we bring to every client relationship.

Our system was developed after a high-stakes wake-up call in 2017, when a critical container for a client’s first shipment with Marriott was delayed by 10 days, prompting us to build a more accurate, visibility-focused solution.